Tattoos of the phoenix symbolize struggle, strife, and victory. The phoenix is a beautiful, mythological bird that incinerates itself, only to rise again, from the ashes, renewed with youth and vigor. Phoenix bird tattoos require a talented artist. The artistic possibilities are endless, and this makes the phoenix perfect for either a man or a woman. A full-back tattoo design works well for a man; while, a small, stylized, tattoo placed near a hip or on the lower back is perfect for a woman. This mythical bird lived many centuries ago. Many cultures accept this story; thus, there are numerous, slight differences in the legend. Christians, for example, created artwork of the phoenix to represent Christ. Romans and Greeks produced beautiful drawings, and sculptures of the phoenix, as well. Designs ideas are easy to find when searching online. First, consider where to place the image of the phoenix on your body. A full-back tattoo may take as long as a year to complete and may cost upwards of $2000. This will require multiple visits to the tattoo artist. A small, stylized tattoo without a lot of detail can run anywhere from $25 to $100. Intricate details, custom tattoos and large areas of the body will involve a higher fee. A sleeve is intricate and detailed, in most cases. These tattoos are quite impressive. Artists can create a large, stylized, tattoo of the phoenix on the entire arm. For a more dramatic, artsy appearance, tattoos can then spillover onto the shoulders, chest or back. With a little research online, a reliable tattoo body shop can be found quickly and easily. A tattoo artist should be chosen carefully. Stop by and check out their work beforehand. Speak to previous customers to get a feel for how well these individuals like their tattoos. Ink on the skin, in the form of art and self-expression, is not new; however, with the help of the World Wide Web, a new generation can easily view literally, thousands of tattoos in only a matter of a few minutes time. Skin is the perfect canvas to many artists. Symbols are some of the most popular tattoos inked today. Peace, hearts, Asian, and zodiac symbols are among some of the most fashionable. Tattoos of the phoenix have been popular for many centuries. These "works-of-art" are especially meaningful to those who wear it. Custom designs can include many colors, and unique patterns.